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SMS verification: What it is and how it works

Increased security

SMS verification makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access to accounts.

Convenience

Most people have their phones with them at all times, so SMS verification is a convenient way to add an extra layer of security.

Accessibility

SMS verification is accessible to a wide range of users, as it does not require any special hardware or software.

SMS verification adds an extra layer of security to the login process because it requires users to have not only their password but also their phone in their possession to access their account. This makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access to accounts, even if they steal a user’s password.

Passwords get stolen daily. In 2021, hackers swiped over two billion accounts—that amounts to around 6.85 million stolen passwords per day and 158 per second.

use cases

Offering an extra layer of security with its accessibility and convenience

Account Creation

Verifying phone numbers during registration and requiring codes for logins adds a barrier against unauthorized access.

Authentication

During activities such as login and password reset, the 2FA codes will be sent via SMS ensure the request originates from the legitimate user.

Financial Transactions

Banks and payment platforms often use SMS verification for high-value transactions or suspicious activity, adding confirmation.

Sensitive Actions

Platforms may require SMS verification for actions like changing account details or transferring funds, protecting sensitive information.

Social Logins

Some platforms offer logins via verified phone numbers, providing an alternative to passwords and social media integration.

Emergency Alerts

Authorities can use SMS to send emergency notifications and updates to residents in affected areas.

FAQ

Certainly! Our verify API lets you validate your users with a minimum coding effort. Plus, you can send messages globally without any hiccups, thanks to our  partnerships with the global network carriers.

What’s more, you can integrate the Verify API into your sign-up flow to capture (and confirm) phone numbers during the onboarding process. This makes security a priority and SMS text verification less complicated.

Want to learn more? Give us a Shout out to [email protected] for more details.

Yes, SMS (Short Message Service) can be considered a reasonably secure method for sending One-Time Passwords (OTPs) in certain contexts. OTPs sent via SMS provide an additional layer of security compared to static passwords, as they are valid for only a short period and can only be used once.

While SMS-based OTPs offer a reasonable level of security, it’s important to note that they are not infallible. Advanced phishing attacks, SIM swapping, or other vulnerabilities may pose risks. Depending on the sensitivity of the information being protected, organizations may opt for more secure alternatives, such as app-based authenticators or hardware tokens. However, for many use cases, SMS OTPs strike a balance between security and usability.

First, make sure that you have a strong cell phone signal—that’s the most common culprit. Next, confirm the website or app has the right phone number—those sneaky typos can cause big headaches. Lastly, ensure your mobile provider isn’t blocking messages from certain senders or number types.

If those recommendations don’t work, you can use an alternate verification channel, such as email.